Gunmen attacked Nding Susut community in Fan District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State on Tuesday night.
The suspected armed group killed five people, including members of the same family, and left residents in fear.
The attackers stormed the area around 9 p.m. and opened fire on people relaxing outside their homes.
The sudden gunfire caught residents off guard. The attackers killed four women and a nine-year-old boy.
They also injured three other women, who now receive treatment at the General Hospital.
Weng Christopher, a resident, described the killings as horrifying and disturbingly common. He said the gunmen wiped out five members of the same family within moments.
They also shot another resident during the attack.
“This keeps happening too often. People now live in constant fear,” Christopher said.
He added that repeated attacks have made daily life unsafe.
Rwang Tengwong, Publicity Secretary of Berom Youth Moulders, confirmed the killings, condemned the violence and urged security agencies to act quickly to protect communities across Plateau State.
Tengwong said gunmen also attempted to attack Rim community in neighbouring Riyom Local Government Area that same night. However, local vigilantes and Operation Rainbow personnel repelled them.
The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident and described the killings as senseless. Police spokesperson SP Alfred Alabo said officers responded quickly after receiving distress calls. They secured the area to prevent further violence.
Commissioner of Police CP Bassey Ewah also condemned the attack. He extended condolences to the victims’ families. He deployed additional tactical teams to the area. These include mobile police units and specialised operatives. They will strengthen patrols and improve intelligence gathering.
Security agencies have launched a manhunt for the attackers. They continue to work with community leaders to track them down.
Meanwhile, fear grips residents of Barkin Ladi. Many say they no longer feel safe, even in their homes. They have urged both state and federal authorities to take decisive action. They want an end to the recurring violence and a return to lasting security.
